Proctor/UPS Neighborhood
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Let’s Get Real, Tacoma
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What I Like Best: Living in Proctor is a bit like living in Mayberry. Cute, treelined streets and locally owned businesses all around. Closer to 6th is the UPS Neighborhood that surrounds Puget Sound University. Many people like living close to UPS because of the beauty of the campus and the energy that the students, events, and speakers bring to the community. The streets are so walkable in this area, and I love all of the historic homes; they give the neighborhoods so much character.
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What I Like Least: There is definitely more competition for the homes in this area. Sometimes it seems a little crazy. These neighborhoods have a lot to offer, including beautiful tree lined streets, walkable neighborhoods, well-preserved historic homes, and great local businesses, but there’s no denying that adding that coveted “N” to your address will cost you.
Living in North End
There’s a lot to love in both Proctor and UPS. They’re home to lots of well-maintained parks, convenient sidewalks and beautifully tree-lined streets… it can be quite picturesque no matter the season. There’s also a strong sense of community identity, and lots of popular local businesses. Living in the North End Neighborhoods is very convenient.
Favorite Community Events
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Each year during the Pierce County Daffodil Festival, there’s a children’s Junior Daffodil Parade in Proctor, which gives the little ones a low-key way to participate in the fun.
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From March to December, Proctor is home to the wonderful and lively Proctor Farmers’ Market every Saturday from 9am to 2pm.
- Puget Sound (also known at UPS) hosts interesting speakers from around the world all year long. Find out more on their website here.
Enjoying Local Flavor
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Restaurants: One of my favorite restaurants, Europa Bistro, is located right in the historic Proctor District. With a real Italian chef and a tantalizing menu, this spot is a true Tacoma gem. Rosewood Cafe is another favorite spot— they have a delicious menu of sandwiches, soups, salads and more and an eclectic selection of wine.
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Coffee Shops: Cafe Brosseau is a lovely locally-owned coffee shop that offers the locally-roasted Madrona coffee, pastries from the local Corina Bakery as well as soups and sandwiches.
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Grocery Shopping: Metropolitan Market has everything that is delicious and wonderful. Sure, it’s expensive, but let’s face it— it’s the fanciest store in all of Tacoma! If there’s anything you can’t find at any other supermarket, you can be sure that they will have it. They also have an espresso bar and a gourmet selection of deli foods (and cheese samples!).
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Gas Station: And lastly, I absolutely have to mention the Shell Service Station on N 26th & Stevens! This is not your average gas station— this lovely establishment is full service! Do we even know what a full service gas station is anymore?! Well, let me tell you: for a little bit extra per gallon they wash your windows, check your fluids, put air in your tires and fill your tank! (This is so exciting that I even wrote a review of them on Yelp.)
